Holiday and Christmas events in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Naples (2017)
Ready for a little ho-ho-ho and also some fa-la-la-la-la? Here's our huge list of holiday events in Southwest Florida — from Santa Claus to “The Nutcracker” to “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid.” Kenny Rogers even makes an appearance.
Happy holidays!
ONGOING
Edison & Ford Holiday Nights The 42nd annual holiday celebration returns to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates. The winter homes, gardens and historic buildings of Thomas Edison and Henry Ford are decorated with thousands of lights and decorations. Opening night festivities start at 6 p.m. and include a tree lighting ceremony. This year's theme, "A Star Spangled Holiday,” features red, white and blue lights and decorations. Other attractions include holiday carolers strolling the grounds, appearances from Santa Claus (on select nights), guided tours and the return of the popular Waltzing Waters water-fountain light show. Open 5:30-9 p.m. daily through Jan. 1. $20 admission ($10 for ages 13-19, $2 for ages 6-12, free for younger). Closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 334-7419 or edisonfordwinterestates.org
“A Tuna Christmas” Another quirky comedy set in Tuna, Texas. Two actors bring more than 20 zany characters to life as one resident tries to produce the play “A Christmas Carol” and a mysterious phantom vandalizes the annual Christmas Yard Display Contest. Nov. 16–Dec. 25. $39-$59. Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com
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“A Christmas Story” “You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!” This is the musical version of the massively popular movie, complete with the infamous leg lamp, the Red Ryder rifle, pink bunny pajamas, an irritable department-store Santa and a triple-dog dare to lick a freezing flagpole. Nov. 23-Dec. 25. $45-$70. The Off Broadway Palm Theatre at Broadway Palm dinner theater, 1380 Colonial Blvd., Fort Myers. 278-4422 or broadwaypalm.com
Santa’s Wonderland Santa Claus visits a recreation of the North Pole, right there inside Bass Pro Shops in San Carlos Park. Visit Santa from 5-8 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. Kids can also take part in holiday crafts. Nov. 11-Dec. 24. You need to get a Bass Pass at the Ticket Depot for your free 4x6 photo with Santa (available on a first-come, first-served basis for that day only). Bass Pro Shops, 10040 Gulf Center Drive in Gulf Coast Town Center, San Carlos Park. 461-7800 or basspro.com/ftmyers
Festival of Lights More than 1 million tropical-themed holiday lights and decorations will be displayed through Dec. 31. Free. Fishermen’s Village, 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda. 941-639-8721 or fishville.com
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25
Kenny Rogers The crossover country superstar performs on what’s being billed as his final world tour before retiring. The show features both Christmas songs and his own hits. 8 p.m. $97-$160. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26
Dave Koz The smooth-jazz saxman sometimes called “Santa Koz” brings his 20th anniversary Christmas tour to Naples. The show features musical guests David Benoit, Rick Braun, Peter White and Selina Albright. 7 p.m. $59-$99. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 597-1111 or artisnaples.org
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28
Goodwill Festival of Trees The 11th annual Festival of Trees showcases uniquely decorated trees and wreaths loaded with gifts. The trees and wreaths — valued between $500 and $4,500 each — are raffled to benefit Goodwill Industries of Southwest Florida and the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center. Raffle tickets are $10 each or three for $25. The event takes place Nov. 29-Dec. 3 with a preview party on Nov. 28. The Festival of Trees is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. $2 admission. Preview party tickets are $50 each. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., downtown Fort Myers. goodwilltrees.com
The Moscow Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” The Moscow Ballet replaces Miami City Ballet for the annual holiday classic. Features the choreography of Bolshoi Ballet veteran Stanislav Vlasov and local dance students embedded in the touring production. 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday. $15-$78. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., North Naples. 597-1900 or artisnaples.org
"Joyful & Triumphant" concert FGCU’s chamber and university choirs perform holiday music and selections from Palestrina, contemporary composers and more. 7 p.m. Free. The Moorings Presbyterian Church, 791 Harbour Drive, Naples. RSVP at fgcu.edu/joyful2017
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29
"Miracle on 34th Street, The Musical" The Naples Players perform the musical version of the classic holiday movie. Nov. 29-Dec. 23. $45 ($10 for students and educators). Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave. S., downtown Naples. 263-7990 or naplesplayers.org
Walk Through Bethlehem You’re invited to walk through the streets of the ancient town of Bethlehem at the time of Jesus Christ's birth. Experience a living re-creation of the marketplace with busy shopkeepers, vendors and Roman guards, and stop by the humble stable where Jesus was born. 7-8 p.m. Wednesday, 5-9 p.m. Friday. Sanibel Community Church, 1740 Periwinkle Way Sanibel Island. 472-2684 or sanibelchurch.com
MORE: Waltzing Waters dances again at Edison & Ford Winter Estates
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30
“Elf Jr.” Creative Theater Workshop presents the kids-musical version of the popular holiday movie. A grown man, raised as an elf in the North Pole, sets out to discover his true identity. Nov. 30-Dec. 5. $10-$15. Sanibel Community House Theater at Sanibel Community House, 2173 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island. 738-3525 or ctw.life
3rd Annual Madrigal Dinner A medieval-style celebration of Christmas with singing, dancing and musical productions by a cast of more than 75 actors, carolers, dancers, gymnasts and jugglers. Enjoy a Wassail reception with warm spiced cider, then a formal call to dinner. Dine on game, potatoes and vegetables. The evening will be filled with ceremonious holiday pomp and tradition. 5:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. $40. First Alliance Church, 20444 Midway Blvd., Port Charlotte. 941-255-1022 or charlotteplayers.org
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1
The Nowhere Band The Beatles tribute act performs classic rock, Beatles songs and holiday favorites at this outdoor show during Art Walk and The Festival of Trees. 6-10 p.m. Free. Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., downtown Fort Myers. 333-1933 or sbdac.com
Promenade Festival of Lights This annual holiday event features a tree lighting, photos with Santa, live music at the Center Bar, live dance demonstrations, and food and drink specials. 5-8 p.m. Free. Promenade at Bonita Bay, 26811 S. Bay Drive, Bonita Springs. facebook.com/events/2460879330858545
Christmas Keyboard Fest The 27th annual music festival boasts four grand pianos and a 100-voice choir and orchestra, plus singing group Veritas and Grammy-nominated flutist Jose Valentino. 7 p.m. Friday, 3 and 7 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free. First Assembly of God, 4701 Summerlin Road, Fort Myers. 936-6277 or FAMFM.com
MORE: TV Santa lands at Bass Pro Shops in Estero
“There’s No Business Like Snow Business” concert Both the Southwest Florida Gay and Lesbian Chorus and the choral ensemble Tropical Storm perform Christmas-themed music of all eras and tempos. 7 p.m. $13-$15. Saint John the Apostle MCC, 3049 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. gaychorus.org
Candy Land Christmas This kids event lets you walk through a candy wonderland filled with games, Christmas activities, a Christmas scavenger hunt, a visit with Elsa of “Frozen,” a spinning candy prize wheel, ice-cream sundaes and more. 5:30 p.m. Free. First United Methodist Church, 388 First Ave., South Naples. 262-1033 or fumcnaples.org
Jingle Bell Bash at C’mon Kick off the holiday season with this new event featuring a tree-lighting ceremony, snacks and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus. 6-8:30 p.m. $20. Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (C’mon), 15080 Livingston Road, Naples. 514-0084 or cmon.org
Tree Lighting Ceremony Get the holiday spirit at this event featuring caroling by the Fort Myers Housing Association Youth Choir, a visit from Santa Claus, a tree lighting, games, a bounce house and more. 6-8 p.m. Free. Center Court at Bell Tower Shops, 13499 U.S. Highway 41, south Fort Myers. 489-1221 or thebelltowershops.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2
Santa's Block Party Santa takes a ride down First Street on a fire truck and ends up at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center for this annual block party. Kids and their families can watch live entertainment, eat brunch from local food trucks, and join Santa for holiday arts and crafts in his workshop. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free admission ($6 for workshop). Takes place outside Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, 2301 First St., downtown Fort Myers. 333-1933 or sbdac.com
Fort Myers Beach Boat Parade The 29th annual nighttime parade starts at about 6 p.m. at Salty Sam's Marina and goes until 8 p.m. More than 30 decorated, illuminated boats are expected to take part. The parade passes Parrot Key Caribbean Grill, Matanzas on the Bay, Nervous Nellie’s, Doc Ford’s, Dixie Fish Co., Shrimp Dock and Bonita Bills. The route takes it northwest under the Sky Bridge and in and out of Siesta Isles. All sizes and types of boats are eligible to enter, from kayaks to cruisers. $25 entry fee for private boats, $50 for corporate-sponsored boats. Salty Sam's Marina, 2500 Main St., Fort Myers Beach. 463-7333 or fmbboatparade.com
“The Nutcracker” Gulf Coast Symphony performs Tchaikovsky’s beloved holiday ballet with the help of Gulfshore Ballet and former Miami City Ballet principal dancers Mary Carmen Catoya and Renato Penteado. 2 and 7 p.m. $29-$75. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
CenturyLink Holiday Festival of Lights The Cape Coral Chamber of Commerce describes its annual event as the largest holiday celebration between Tampa and Miami. More than 20,000 people attend every year to ring in the holidays with fun activities, photos with Santa and the lighting of the city's official Christmas tree. Other activities includes a Candy Cane Park kids play area, vendors, the Tiny Tot Train ride, a snow drift and more than 15 community groups performing live on three stages. 4-10 p.m. Free. Cape Coral Parkway between Southwest 15th Avenue and Candia Street, downtown Cape Coral. 549-6900 or capecoralchamber.com
“Elf” The KidzAct players perform the stage version of the popular holiday movie about Buddy, an elf who is really a full-grown human man. Dec. 2-11. $20 ($10 for students). Sugden Community Theatre, 701 Fifth Ave. S., downtown Naples. 263-7990 or naplesplayers.org
Snowfest No matter what the weather is, snow will be in the forecast for this annual event. Features man-made snow mountains, a snow maze, photos with Santa and his elves at Santa’s South Pole, festive foods and a full-scale carnival. 3-9 p.m. $2 (free for ages 3 and younger). Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. snowfestnaples.com
Festival of Advent Carols Professional chamber vocal group The Genesis Ensemble performs the music of Willcocks, Thiman, Scott and Stopford. 5 p.m. Free. Faith Lutheran Church, 4150 Goodlette-Frank Road, Naples. 434-5811 or flcnaples.com
Handel’s "Messiah" The Naples Philharmonic and Chorus perform the holiday classic. This is the first of two performances at First Presbyterian and Artis-Naples. 7 p.m. $35 ($15 for students). First Presbyterian Church, 250 Sixth Street S., Naples. 597-1900 or artisnaples.org
A Starry Celtic Christmas Local band Wolfhound plays old ballads and Celtic holiday tunes. Two shows at 4 p.m. and 5:45 p.m. $10-$12. Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. 275-3435 or calusanature.org
Captiva Golf Cart Parade Decorated golf carts roll down Captiva Drive during this eighth-annual event. Expect over-the-top decorations such as snowflakes, flamingos and gingerbread houses. 3:30-5:30 p.m. Free. Captiva Drive on Captiva Island. captivaholidayvillage.com
Holiday on the Bay The annual event includes more than 100,000 lights, holiday carolers, snow shows, free photos with Santa and stories with Mrs. Claus. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays through Dec. 23 and also Christmas Eve. Free. The Village on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulfshore Blvd. N., Naples. 261-6100 or venetianvillage.com
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3
Handel’s "Messiah" The Naples Philharmonic and Chorus perform the holiday classic. This is the second of two performances at First Presbyterian Church and Artis-Naples. 7 p.m. $35 ($15 for students). Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 597-1111 or artisnaples.org
“Sounds of the Season” concert The Charlotte Symphony Orchestra performs holiday music, including Mannheim Steamroller’s version of “Silent Night,” Christmas music from the movies, and excerpts from “The Nutcracker” with dance performances by Punta Gorda’s Christina Koinis Ballet. 2 and 7 p.m. $52. Charlotte Performing Arts Center, 701 Carmalita St., Punta Gorda. 941-205-5996 or charlottesymphony.com
Community Readings and Carols The Fort MyersMastersingers join pianist Janet Carter and the Mastersingers City of Palms Youth Choir for this Christmas-themed concert that includes carols and readings of poems and scripture. 3 p.m. Free. New Hope Presbyterian Church, 10051 Plantation Road, Fort Myers. 288-2535 or mastersingersfm.com
“Holidays in Paradise” concert Part of the monthly Musical Moments series, this concert features several local acts performing Tchaikovsky and more holiday music. 3 p.m. $22.50-$25. Center for Performing Arts Bonita Springs, 10150 Bonita Beach Road, Bonita Springs. 495-8989 or artcenterbonita.org
Christmas with the Gulfshore Tenors The Southwest Florida quartet sings love songs and Christmas favorites. 3 p.m. $30. Naples Italian-American Foundation, 7035 Airport Pulling Road N., North Naples. 529-3925 or gulfshoreopera.org
Spirit of the Gulf concert The award-winning, all-female chorus performs its annual holiday show, plus a guest appearance by the popular Signature Quartet. 2 p.m. $20-$40. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. 844-704-SING or spiritofthegulf.com
MONDAY, DECEMBER 4
LeAnn Rimes The country star sings holiday classics and her own hits. 8 p.m. $69-$89. This show is nearly sold-out. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 597-1111 or artisnaples.org
A Big Band Holiday Spectacular Popular jazz duo Dan Miller (trumpet) and Lew Del Gatto (saxophone) bring together an all-star band to play Duke Ellington and Count Basie arrangements of holiday classics. Then they’ll all take part in a jam session. 7 p.m. $15 ($30 for VIP). North Naples Church, 6000 Goodlette Road, North Naples. 593-7600 or northnaplesumc.com
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5
“Home for the Holidays” Voices of Naples chorus performs holiday songs in two different venues: 7 p.m. Tuesday at Emmanuel Lutheran Church in Naples and 7 p.m. Thursday at Chapel By The Sea on Fort Myers Beach. Admission is free. voicesofnaples.org
Christmas Carol Sing Sing along to holiday music and help feed the hungry at this 27th annual event. The 90-minute show features the First Presbyterian Church Choir, soloists and other guests singing holiday carols with audience sing-a-longs. 1, 4 and 7 p.m. Doors open 30 minutes before show time. Free admission (although donations of cash or at least two canned goods are requested for The Soup Kitchen). First Presbyterian Church, 2438 Second Street, downtown Fort Myers. 334-2261 or fpcfortmyers.org
Holiday in the Park The annual event features a "blizzard" in the park, a tree lighting, a snow slide, live entertainment and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Guests may bring lawn chairs and blankets, but no pets or coolers. 4:30-8:30 p.m. Free. Riverside Park, 10450 Reynolds St., downtown Bonita Springs. 949-6262 or cityofbonitasprings.org
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7
“The Marvelous Wonderettes: Winter Wonderettes” Musical featuring 60’s versions of holiday classics such as “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “Jingle Bell Rock.” Dec. 7-17. $14-$16. Firehouse Community Theatre, 241 Bridge St., LaBelle. (863)-675-3066 or firehousecommunitytheatre.com
“All Is Calm” This theatrical production highlights the true events of the Christmas Truce of 1914, where Allied and German soldiers along the Western Front stopped fighting and celebrated Christmas together. It features patriotic and sentimental tunes. 7:30 p.m. $36. The Village Church Auditorium in Shell Point Retirement Community, 15101 Shell Point Blvd., Fort Myers. 454-2067 or shellpoint.org/concerts
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8
Holiday Nights This holiday event features crafts, games, photos with Santa, a decorated trail, a campfire with marshmallows and more. 5:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday, Dec. 8-17. $10 for adults, $5 for children. Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium, 3450 Ortiz Ave., Fort Myers. 275-3435 or calusanature.org
Holiday House The holiday tradition celebrates its 61st anniversary with holiday treats and live entertainment, Santa Claus and tours of the lavishly decorated historic Burroughs and Langford-Kingston homes. 5-9 p.m. Dec. 8-23. $5 admission. Free for ages 10 and younger, plus military and veterans with ID. Organized by the Fort Myers Woman’s Community Club. Burroughs Home, 2505 First St., downtown Fort Myers. 739-4462 or fmwcc.com/holiday-house
Christmas In The Park This outdoor holiday fest includes bounce houses, an inflatable obstacle course, a giant slide and the Southwest Florida Symphony performing holiday songs. Santa arrives on a fire truck at 5 p.m., followed by the lighting of the city’s Christmas tree at 6 p.m. and a free showing of the Disney movie “A Christmas Carol” at 7:30 p.m. The fest takes place 4 p.m. to about 9 p.m. Free admission. Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed. Centennial Park, 2000 W. First St., downtown Fort Myers.
“A Christmas Carol” Christopher Schario’s adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic with traditional English folk tunes and fiddle. A child reading the tale gets magically ushered into the real world of “A Christmas Carol.” Dec. 8-29. $45 ($5 for children and students). BIG ARTS Strauss Theater, 2200 Periwinkle Way, Sanibel Island. 472-6862 or bigarts.org
Night Lights in the Garden Thousands of twinkling lights and decorations illuminate Naples Botanical Garden. Each night will include holiday performances, family activities and festive sweets and treats. Dec. 8-Jan. 3. $20 admission ($10 for children ages 4-14, free for younger). Tickets must be purchased prior to the event online or from the garden’s ticketing windows. Naples Botanical Garden, 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples. 643-7275 or naplesgarden.org
South Seas Island Resort Holiday Stroll Families are invited to visit South Seas Island Resort for a display of holiday lights and family activities. Children can make ornaments, eat s’mores and visit with Santa. 6-9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Dec. 8-22. $10 admission, free for ages 12 and younger. South Seas Island Resort, 5400 Plantation Road, Captiva Island. southseas.com
“Magi” Word of Life’s touring Christmas production presents the true meaning of Christmas through creative use of music, drama and multimedia. 7 p.m. Free. Two local shows will be performed: Friday at First Alliance Church in Port Charlotte and Saturday at First Baptist Church in Cape Coral. welcome.wol.org/magi
Santa Fest A fun-filled evening of holiday cheer with crafts, games, cookies, juice and photos with Santa. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Admission is $5 or one unwrapped toy. Wa-Ke-Hatchee Rec Center, 16730 Bass Road, Fort Myers. 432-2154
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9
“A Christmas Story” An outdoor screening of the popular holiday movie about Ralphie and his quest for a Red Ryder air rifle. 7 p.m. Free (although a $10 donation is suggested). Lawn chairs and blankets are allowed. Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd. Fort Myers. 939-2787 or artinlee.org
Naples Christmas Boat Parade The annual parade starts at about 6:30 p.m. and travels north along Naples Bay from Marker 18 in the Hamilton Harbor marina area to the Naples City Dock and Tin City. All sizes of boats are welcomed to enter the parade. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Free admission and no entry fee. All proceeds benefit the Ricky King Foundation. Naples Bay in Naples. 682-0900 or miacc.org
Bonita Springs Christmas Boat Parade The annual parade features decorated, illuminated boats traveling along the Imperial River. 5 p.m. to about 9 p.m. Free. The route starts at The Fish House on Bonita Beach Road and travels to Holly Lane, east of U.S. 41, before turning around and returning to The Fish House. The best viewing spots are the Imperial River boat ramp, River Park or the U.S. 41 bridge. The Imperial River in Bonita Springs. 495-0455 or bonitaboatparade.com
Teddy Bear Tea Oversized teddy bears and aromatic teas fill the beach resort’s lobby lounge at this annual event. A storyteller reads favorite children’s tales while the kids enjoy hot chocolate, sweet treats and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2:30-4 p.m. Dec. 9, 10, 16, 17, 20-23. Only open afternoons Dec. 18-19. $65. The Ritz-Carlton, 280 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples. 598-6644
Jingle Bellies Holiday Belly Dance Show and Party Rhythm in Motion’s annual event features a belly-dance show and a Mediterranean buffet. 6:30 p.m. $15-$20. Rhythm In Motion, 912 Del Prado Blvd., Cape Coral. 542-3500 or capedance.com
Weekend with Santa and the Polar Express Bring the family for a visit with Santa and enjoy a free ride on the Polar Express mini train. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free. Sanibel Outlets, 20350 Summerlin Road, Fort Myers. sanibeloutlets.com
Celebrate the holidays at Cultural Park This event features caroling, decorations, Santa and more. Hosted by the Cultural Park campus, which features Cultural Park Theater, Cape Coral Art League and the Cape Coral Historical Museum. 5-8 p.m. Free. Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 772-7037
A New Life Christmas Celebrate the season with this religious concert featuring the 100-voice New Life Choir and Children's Choir, plus 12-year-old guest violinist Alex Cameron. 7 p.m. Saturday, 6 p.m. Sunday. Free. New Life Assembly of God, 5146 Leonard Blvd., Lehigh Acres. 369-6147 or newlifelehigh.com
Winter Wonderland at Palm City Brewing Holiday event featuring photos with Santa, cookie decorating, crafts and the Sweet Cheesus food truck. 2-4 p.m. Free. Palm City Brewing, 7887 Drew Circle, Suite 130, Fort Myers. 362-2862 or facebook.com/PalmCityBrewing
A Very Merry Paradise Christmas Second-annual family fun day with vendors, crafts, face painting, Santa handing out candy canes (noon to 3 p.m. only), live entertainment, food trucks and more. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free. Hosted by the Local Ladies Social Network. Jaycee Park, 4125 S.E. 20th Place, Cape Coral. facebook.com/events/413021375711792
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10
Paul Todd & PJ holiday concert Popular local pianist/singer Paul Todd and son Paul Todd Jr. perform their annual holiday show organized the Fort Myers Beach Friends of the Arts. 4-6 p.m. Free. Santini Marina Plaza, 7205 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. 463-3600 or FMBArts.org
Lee County Community Band Annual Christmas Concert The 50-member band performs Handel's “Hallelujah Chorus” from “The Messiah,” “White Christmas,” some carol medleys, a sing-along, “Brazilian Sleigh Bells,” “Jingle Bells in Dixie” and more. 3 p.m. Free. Cape Coral High School, 2300 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral. 995-2097 or leecountyband.org
Santa on the Sand Bring your kids, grandkids and friends for an afternoon of lunch, games and prizes on the beach with Santa Claus. Hosted by FOLKS (Friends of Lovers Key) and the Rotary Club of Bonita Springs. Admission to see Santa is one unwrapped toy, which the Rotary Club will give to local children. The event includes games, prizes, lunch for the children and snacks for adults. Each family gets a chance to win a fully decorated Christmas tree donated by the Rotary Club. 1-4 p.m. Park admission is $2-$8. Pre-registration required. Lovers Key State Park on the beach next to the gazebo, 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort Myers Beach. To RSVP, call
Judy Greenwood at 708-359-0466 or email her at fjgreenwood@gmail.com.
"The Nutcracker" Etudes de Ballet students perform the Tchaikovsky classic. Two shows at 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. $19-$25. Golden Gate High School, 2925 Titan Way, Naples. 593-8280 or edbnaples.com/nutcracker
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12
Holiday Pops: Music from “A Charlie Brown Christmas” Pianist Jim Martinez, the Southwest Florida Symphony and The Symphonic Chorale of Southwest Florida play music from the classic 1965 “Peanuts” cartoon. They perform at 7:30 p.m. at four different venues: Shell Point Village Church in south Fort Myers (Dec. 12, $35), St. Leo the Great Catholic Church in Bonita Springs (Dec. 14, $30), BIG ARTS on Sanibel Island (Dec. 15, $40) and Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall in south Fort Myers (Dec. 16, $26.50-$90). 418-1500 or swflso.org
Carol of the King: The Irish Dance Christmas Spectacular The team behind the hit Irish dance show “Rhythm in the Night” returns with this holiday show featuring 20 dancers and musicians, popular holiday songs and an original Christmas story of love and salvation. 8 p.m. $25-$45. Southwest Florida Event Center, 11515 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs. 245-9910 or swflpac.com
A Very Yappy Christmas Bring your dogs and other pets to this dog-themed holiday event featuring vendors, a food truck, pet snacks, a pet costume contest, a pet photo booth and adoptable animals. 6-9 p.m. Free. Millennial Brewing Company, 1811 Royal Palm Ave., downtown Fort Myers. 271-2255 or millennialbrewing.com
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13
“Spectacular Christmas Revue” This annual Christmas show features holiday and pop songs, Santa and more. Dec. 13-17. $21 ($18 for seniors, $15 for students, $10 for ages 11 and younger). Cultural Park Theater, 528 Cultural Park Blvd., Cape Coral. 772-5862 or culturalparktheater.com
Community Chanukah Celebration This celebration includes a menorah lighting, crafts for kids, Israeli folk dancing, face painting, a concert by the Naples Klezmer Revival Band and more. Starts at 5 p.m. Free. The Lawn at Mercato, 9118 Strada Place, Naples. 254-1080 or mercatoshops.com
A Christmas Experience This festival recreates an old-town Christmas village with craft stations for kids, drink stations with hot chocolate and wassail, a live nativity and a show with performances by a 100-voice choir, a 25-piece orchestra and Broadway star J. Mark McVey (“Les Miserables”). The show starts at 7 p.m. Wednesday through Friday, 4 and 7 p.m. Sunday. The village opens one hour before show time. $5-$10. First Baptist Church of Naples, 3000 Orange Blossom Drive, Naples. 888-795-1559 or fbcn.org
Holiday Brass The Naples Chamber Brass performs the sounds of the season. 7:30 p.m. $40-$50 ($10 for students and children). Wang Opera Center, 2408 Linwood Ave., Naples. 775-2800 or capacenter.org
Holiday Tea with the Edisons & Fords Join Mr. & Mrs. Thomas Edison for a holiday tea and tours of the decorated Edison & Ford Winter Estates. Reenactors performing as The Edisons and Mrs. Ford show off their seasonally decorated homes. Enjoy tea, lemonade and cookies. Space is limited. 6:30 p.m. $25 admission includes annual Holiday Nights display. Edison & Ford Winter Estates, 2350 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 334-7419
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14
Holiday Pops The Naples Philharmonic’s annual holiday show features favorite seasonal tunes and more. They’ll be joined by the Naples Philharmonic Chorus, the Naples Philharmonic Youth Chorus and singer Capathia Jenkins. 8 p.m. Dec. 14-17. $60-$103. Artis-Naples, 5833 Pelican Bay Blvd., Naples. 597-1111 or artisnaples.org
A Seraphic Fire Christmas The Grammy Award-nominated vocal ensemble from Miami performs holiday music. 7 p.m. $58. Vanderbilt Presbyterian Church, 1225 Piper Blvd., North Naples. 305-285-9060 or seraphicfire.org
Tuba Christmas More than 70 musicians from the Naples Concert Band perform at this annual holiday concert. Featured instruments include tubas, euphoniums and more. 6:30-7:30 p.m. Free. Sugden Plaza, 701 Fifth Ave. S.,, Naples. FifthAvenueSouth.com
Santa Paws Bring your dog for photos with Santa. Plus there will be adoptable pets from the Humane Society of Naples. 5-7 p.m. Free. The Village Shops on Venetian Bay, 4200 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples. 261-6100 or venetianvillage.com
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15
“A One-Man Christmas Carol” With only the aid of a steamer trunk, actor Timur Kocak plays all 24 roles in this 90-minute version of Dickens’ 1843 holiday classic. 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. $25 ($11 for students). Alliance for the Arts, 10091 McGregor Blvd., Fort Myers. 939-2787 or artinlee.org
Ugly Sweater Party Wear your most headache-inducing, stomach-churning holiday sweater for this event. If you wear an ugly sweater, you get $1 off your first beer. 4-10 p.m. Free. Palm City Brewing, 7887 Drew Circle, Suite 130, Fort Myers. 362-2862 or facebook.com/PalmCityBrewing
Paul Todd & PJ Christmas concert Popular local pianist/singer Paul Todd and son Paul Todd Jr. perform a Christmas-themed show. 7 p.m. Free admission (although a free-well offering will be collected with a suggested donation of $20-$25 per person). Beach United Methodist Church, 155 Bay Road, Fort Myers Beach. 463-9656 or Paultodd.com
Live Nativity: One Starry Night Meet the characters from the Christmas story and enjoy themed activities in a multi-sensory, interactive Bethlehem experience for all ages. 5-8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Free admission. Christ United Methodist Church, 1430 Homestead Road N., Lehigh Acres. 369-1433 or christumclehigh.org
Holy Rocka Rollaz Christmas Show Holiday music and more performed by the Minnesota-based rock and rockabilly band. 2 and 7 p.m. Free. First Presbyterian Church of Bonita Springs, 9751 Bonita Beach Road S.E., Bonita Springs. 992-3410 or fpcbonita.org
A Christmas Party on the Bay Yard Dog Charlie provides the music for this Pine Island Food Pantry benefit featuring raffles, food and drink specials, and original artwork by local artist Diane “Greenwoman” Wickes. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Free admission. Everyone who donates non-perishable food, supplies or money gets a raffle ticket. Hooked Island Grill, 4200 Pine Island Road, Matlacha. yarddogcharlie.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16
Cape Coral Holiday Boat-A-Long The 41st-annual boat parade takes place during a holiday festival that features a movie, holiday music, food vendors and crafts for kids. More than 100 boats will be decorated with Christmas lights, inflatables and more. They line up in the Bimini Basin and travel along various south Cape canals. Run by SeaTow Fort Myers, the annual parade is also a collection event for Toys For Tots. The fest takes place 4-10 p.m., with the parade starting at 7 p.m. Free. Four Freedoms Park, 4818 Tarpon Court, Cape Coral. 945-4820
Decade the Halls Tour This touring show features Tenth Avenue North, Zach Williams and Meredith Andrews. 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.). $15-$25 ($50 for VIP). First Baptist Church, 4117 Coronado Parkway, Cape Coral. firstbaptistcapecoral.com/decade-the-halls-tour
A Very Jerry Christmas The Tom Marcellis Band performs Grateful Dead songs at this Dead-themed toy drive. Plus deejayed music afterward. 8 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Free. Rack’em Spirits & Times, 1011 S.E. 47th Terrace, downtown Cape Coral. facebook.com/RackemspiritsandTimes
Square One Improv The improv-comedy troupe performs its annual Christmas show with funny songs, mini musicals and comedy games based on audience suggestions. 8 p.m. $15. Golden Gate Community Center, 4701 Golden Gate Parkway, Naples. the-studio-players.ticketleap.com
Taylor and Friends Church music director Taylor L. Ferranti and his wife, Laura, perform Christmas music with some musical friends. 2 p.m. Free admission (although a freewill offering will be collected). Lely Presbyterian Church, 110 St. Andrews Blvd., East Naples. 774-6151 or lelychurch.com
Christmas Carol Concert The Trinity-by-the-Cove chamber choir sings Christmas favorites accompanied by harp, flute, pipe organ and harpsichord, followed by an audience sing-along. 5 p.m. Free. Trinity-by-the-Cove Episcopal Church, 553 Galleon Drive, Naples. 262-6581 or trinitybythecove.com
Cookies and Cocoa with Mr. and Mrs. Claus Kids ages 3-8 can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus for hot cocoa and story time. 1-3 p.m. Guardians are not required to stay. Pre- registration required. Bill Austin Youth Center, 315 S.W. Second Ave., Cape Coral. 242-3950
Holly Jolly SWFL Local bands and musicians perform and record their own originals and some holiday classics for a pair of compilation albums. Visual artists will create the album covers during the event. Presented by singer-songwriter K-Sea and SetLife Productions. All proceeds go toward the local art and music scene. 7-11:30 p.m. Free. Beach Records, 16120 San Carlos Blvd., Unit 10, south Fort Myers. 878-7806 or facebook.com/BeachRecords
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17
“Deck the Halls” concert The Fort Myers Mastersingers join Gulf Coast Symphony and Kellyn Irish Dancers for a night of holiday music. 7 p.m. $29-$75. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols The St. Luke's Parish Choir performs music by Palestrina, Kopylow, Handel, Joubert, Mendelssohn and Arcadelt, plus congregational carols. 3 p.m. Free. A holiday reception follows the concert. St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 2635 Cleveland Ave., Fort Myers. 334-2479 or saintlukes-fortmyers.org
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20
Ethan Bortnick The 16-year-old singer, songwriter, pianist, actor and composer performs a holiday concert. 7 p.m. $39-$82. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
Snow Me Away Cabaret Teens and Florida Rep Education interns perform in this holiday cabaret. All proceeds go to Florida Rep’s scholarship program for graduating seniors pursuing a career in the theater arts. 7 p.m. $10. Florida Repertory Theatre, 2267 Bay St., downtown Fort Myers. 332-4488 or floridarep.org
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 22
Square One Improv The improv-comedy troupe brings its holiday show to Lab Theater. Expect more funny songs, mini musicals and comedy games based on audience suggestions. 8 p.m. $12-$15. The Laboratory Theater of Florida, 1634 Woodford Ave., downtown Fort Myers. 218-0481 or laboratorytheaterflorida.com
Holiday House Pop-Up Bar Rockade hosts this weekend pop-up bar with a different theme every Friday and Saturday through Dec. 30. Features holiday decorations, music, costumes, specialty drinks, nightly visits with Santa, and Christmas karaoke (Fridays only from 6-9 p.m.). Upcoming themes include “Mistletoe & Margaritas” (Dec. 22), a “Nightmare Before Christmas” costume party (Dec. 23), a holiday luau party (Dec. 29) and an ugly sweater party (Dec. 30). 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fridays, 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Saturdays. Free admission. Rockade, 1015 S.E. 47th Terrace, downtown Cape Coral. 541-7900 or facebook.com/caperockade
Cirque Dreams Holidaze Acclaimed, European-style circus company Cirque Dreams returns to Mann Hall with this holiday show featuring more than 300 eye-popping costumes, 20 acts, elaborate production numbers, singers, original music, favorite holiday songs and more. 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday. $28-$71. Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 FSW Parkway, south Fort Myers. 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 23
Fifth annual Holidays Without Hunger Volunteers come together every year to pack more than 506,000 holiday meals for the hungry in just two hours. This year, they hope to make that 1 million meals. Hosted by Meals of Hope. 9 a.m. Lee Civic Center, 11831 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers. Volunteers must pre-register at holidayswithouthunger.org/Register.html
Santa at the Stable Santa visits Saddlewood Horse Club on horseback. This annual event lets children groom, pet and feed horses; ride ponies and horses in a covered riding area; jump in a bounce house; eat lunch; paint horses; and visit Santa. 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. $20 fee includes lunch and all activities. Saddlewood Horse Club, 16111 Saddlewood Lane, Cape Coral. To register, call 738-9300 or visit CapeHorses.com
“Santa’s Magic Key storytime A holiday storytime reading featuring the holiday tale about a boy who realizes on Christmas Eve that his new house doesn’t have a chimney. With the post office closed and Santa coming by the end of the night, the boy has no way of telling Santa. But then he discovers a mysterious key. 11 a.m. Free. Activities will follow the storytime. Takes place at three area Barnes & Noble bookstores in Naples, Bonita Springs and Fort Myers. barnesandnoble.com
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 28
Moscow Ballet's Great Russian Nutcracker Celebrate the beloved Christmas tradition with the whole family as forty world-class Russian artists bring this charming classic to life. Experience Tchaikovsky's master score with the magic of larger than-life-puppets, a growing Christmas tree and life-sized Matrushka dolls. 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. $32-$74. Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall, 13350 Edison Parkway, south Fort Myers. 481-4849 or bbmannpah.com
The Naples Daily News contributed to this article.
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